Best universities in Austria 2024

Nowadays, studying in Austrian universities is a great opportunity to get high-quality education in one of European countries at an attractive price. Education in one of the most interesting countries in Europe has a number of advantages:

• Getting an international diploma in an internationally recognized center of education - Austria.
• A wide range of specialties. The greatest recognition at the world level was obtained by graduates of medical and economic specialties - that is why among foreign students universities of these directions are very popular
• Low cost of education. Due to the high ratings of many universities in Austria, a stereotype is widely spread about the high cost of education in this country, but the average cost of studying for one semester for foreign students is about 750 euros. At the same time, students receive a large number of privileges: free visits to a number of museums and theaters, travel privileges, etc.
• Vienna is recognized throughout the world as one of the best student cities, ranked 16th in the QS rating
• Possibility to get education in English or German
• High level of security in the country
• A rich history and interesting sightseeing and natural attractions can be one of the reasons to learn more about Austria
• Studying in Austria provides an excellent opportunity to visit not only neighboring cities, but also other EU countries.

Diversity is evident within Austrian higher education, encompassing three main categories: public universities, private institutions, and universities of applied disciplines. While public (Universitäten) and private (Privatuniversitäten) universities hold clear definitions, the concept of universities of applied disciplines (Fachhochschulen) may raise questions. It's noteworthy that state universities dominate the Austrian scene, with private universities representing a minority and education costs being considerable.

Best universities of applied disciplines in Austria are distinct institutions that intertwine practical skills with theoretical knowledge. These universities offer extensive internships within various companies, granting students invaluable hands-on experience. Among the most esteemed universities of this category are:

1. Lauder Business School

2. Fachhochschule des bfi Vienna

3. Ferdinand Porsche Fern-Fachhochschule

4. Fachhochschule Technikum Vienna.

Austria boasts a significant presence in prestigious global rankings. Many Austrian best universities feature in the ARWU ranking, securing positions within the TOP-500.

• Vienna University: The country's oldest institution, hosting around 90,000 students worldwide. Renowned for disciplines such as history and religious studies.

• Innsbruck University: An exceptional establishment often competing with the University of Vienna. Notable achievements within the field of physics.

• The Vienna Technical University: A modern, globally recognized technical institution offering relevant programs crafted by renowned experts. Thriving departments include Information Technology and Engineering.

• The University of Graz: One of Austria's largest universities, boasting a rich history. Engineering stands as a prestigious field of study.

• The Kepler University: A newer establishment, acclaimed for its programs in mathematics and engineering.

Sam Jones

Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

What firstly should be considered when choosing a university?

It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.

Navigating the intricate process of assembling the requisite documents for foreign university admission demands careful attention and a thorough grasp of country-specific regulations. Attaining acceptance into an Austrian university as an international student without the expertise of specialists can prove challenging.

It's essential to note that document requirements, submission rules, and deadlines vary according to the chosen university. Typically, the following documents are required:

• Secondary education certificate and accompanying annexes

• Completed application form

• German/English language proficiency certificate (at an adequate level).

However, universities may introduce supplementary exams and criteria. Additionally, document preparation includes securing a visa.

Submission deadlines hinge on the specific university and are often linked to the commencement of the summer and winter semesters, occurring in March and October.

Conclusively, the prerequisites for Austrian university admission form a pivotal aspect of university selection.

Studying in Austria as an international student presents a remarkable opportunity to initiate your future journey. Accomplished educators and a high standard of education in the country ensure an enriching and captivating learning experience.

The cost and fees for attending university in Austria can vary significantly, especially for international students. As of the most recent information we have, which is up to September 2021, public universities in Austria typically charge non-EU/EEA international students tuition fees ranging from €726.72 to €1,500 per semester, depending on the course and university. Some specialized courses like MBAs can cost more. EU/EEA students generally benefit from lower or even no tuition fees at public universities, although there may be a nominal fee for student services. Private universities, which offer specialized and sometimes more internationally-recognized degrees, can have tuition fees ranging from €3,000 to over €20,000 per academic year.

In addition to tuition, there are mandatory student union fees (ÖH-Beitrag) and a small administrative charge for all students, including international ones. These are generally under €25 per semester and provide benefits like public transportation tickets and access to student services. Some universities might also charge additional fees for special courses, labs, or equipment, adding to the total cost. These can vary widely depending on the field of study and the specific courses chosen.

Apart from these direct educational costs, international students must also budget for living expenses. The cost of living in Austria can be quite high, particularly in cities like Vienna, Salzburg, or Innsbruck. Living expenses, including accommodation, food, local transportation, health insurance, and personal expenses, can range from €800 to €1,300 per month. Of course, this can vary based on lifestyle and personal choices, but it's essential to budget adequately for these expenditures.

Financial aid opportunities are somewhat limited but do exist for international students. Scholarships, grants, and part-time employment are options that can help offset the costs of education and living expenses. Some scholarships are based on academic performance, while others focus on financial need or specific talents. Employment opportunities for students are regulated, and there are limits to the number of hours a student can work per week, which is especially relevant for non-EU/EEA students. Overall, careful financial planning is essential for international students considering pursuing an education in Austria.

Universities in Austria are renowned for their high quality of education and emphasis on research. They provide students with access to state-of-the-art research resources and laboratories.

Application deadlines may vary from university to university and program to program. Typically, applications for the fall semester are submitted in the spring, and applications for the spring semester are submitted in the fall. It is recommended to check the specific deadlines on the official websites of the universities.

Admission requirements may vary depending on the specific university and program. However, in most cases, a high school diploma (or equivalent) and a language certificate such as IELTS or TOEFL for English-language programs are required. Language requirements may vary, but generally an IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL score of 80 or above is required for undergraduate and graduate courses.

To obtain a student visa, you must first receive an invitation from the university. You then apply for a visa at the nearest Austrian embassy or consulate. You will also need to provide proof of financial solvency and health insurance.

Yes, many Austrian universities actively cooperate with companies and provide students with internship opportunities and practice in their field. This allows students to gain valuable experience working on real projects.

Yes, after completing your studies in Austria you can apply for a permanent residence permit if you meet the conditions set by the local immigration authorities. This allows you to stay and work in Austria after completing your studies.

Universities in Austria provide numerous support options for international students, including orientation courses, academic advice, language support and more. This helps students integrate successfully and achieve academic success.

Austrian universities have strong connections with employers and provide students with job opportunities and internships. Especially in technical and scientific fields, there is a high demand for graduates, making job prospects more favorable.

Many universities in Austria provide accommodation for international students in student residences. However, the demand for housing in Austria is quite high, so it is recommended to apply for housing in advance. In addition, students can search for housing on the private market.

Yes, many universities in Austria provide students with the opportunity to work on campus. This could be working in a library, laboratory, cafeteria or administrative position. This gives students the opportunity to earn additional money and gain experience.

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